Iran still has an off-ramp for diplomacy, says David Lammy

Iran still has an off-ramp for diplomacy, says David Lammy

Foreign Secretary David Lammy has emphasized the importance of Iran taking “the off-ramp” and returning to the negotiating table. This comes after Iran vowed there would be “everlasting consequences” following US strikes over the weekend aimed at disrupting the country’s nuclear program. Lammy has warned Iran against retaliating by targeting US bases or by blocking the key shipping lane of the Strait of Hormuz.

In discussions with the Iranian foreign minister, Lammy has stressed the need for Iran to seriously consider the off-ramp that is being offered to them. He mentioned engaging with partners in the G7, Europe, and the Arab world to urge Iran to work towards de-escalation. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer reiterated the UK’s non-involvement in the US strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, expressing concerns about the risk of further escalation and emphasizing efforts to stabilize the situation.

While the US acted unilaterally in ordering and carrying out the strikes, the UK government did not need to make a decision on involvement. However, potential trade-offs may arise depending on Iran’s response. The government has made it clear that it does not support a nuclear-armed Iran, but also does not endorse the method of bombing nuclear facilities adopted by the US. Critics have questioned the legality of the US strikes, with Lammy acknowledging diplomatic efforts had not curbed Iran’s enrichment activities.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed Iran’s 60% uranium enrichment and highlighted Iran’s lack of transparency. Lammy emphasized the dangers of nuclear proliferation in the region if Iran acquires nuclear weapons. He advocated for a diplomatic solution to address the Iranian nuclear program, highlighting the need for international monitoring. The IAEA held an emergency meeting demanding access to Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpiles. Meanwhile, political leaders in the UK have expressed concerns about being left out of operational decisions and the potential implications of recent events on global security

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